ES2002 Business Communication

Letter Writing: Introduction

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Outline

• Functions of a letter

• Definition of an effective letter

• Types of letters

• The letter writing process

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Functions of a letter

• A messenger– Letter conveys information

• An ambassador– Letter represents the sending

company

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An Effective Letter

Is one where the reader reacts positively to the writer’s goals.

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Types of letters

Broadly speaking, two types• Receivers outside one’s organisation

• Receivers within one’s organisation

Memos

Note: In handouts on letter writing, the word ‘letter’ used as a generic term to refer to all types of business correspondence (letters, memos, emails).

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Letter Writing Process

• Planning• Organising• Drafting• Revising